‘We think we disturbed whoever it was. We don’t know if they wanted to cause more damage.’

Maria, 56, said: ‘Whoever did this was intending to cause death, but whatever gun they used didn’t do the job properly as sheep have very thick skulls. This was done by someone who doesn’t give animals any thought. The ones that did die will have taken a long time to do so.’

Security at the farm has now been increased and an investigation has been launched.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: ‘Enquiries are ongoing but anyone with any information should contact investigating officers on 101.’